Magician and mentalist, Jeff Newman, right, determines what lies in the sealed boxes, shuffled by Reid Silvernagle and Jerri Angelopoulous, November 13 for the second show of the Biggar and District Arts Council concert season. Newman, of course, correctly identified the objects in the sealed boxes, confirmed by Jerri and Reid (inset picture). An amazing show that had people in a spellbound wonder! (Independent Photo by Kevin Brautigam)
celebrated the importance of Canadian music with Canada Music Week, Tuesday. A noon hour performance featured school musicians and performers while the evening was a mixture of everyone who could carry a tune. Music was Canadian themed with area music teachers an important part of the festivities.
Biggar
(Independent Photos by Kevin Brautigam)
Bulani adds ‘author’ to repertoire
Local farmer and businessman wants you to know where your food is coming from.
More importantly, he wants to dispel all the myths about how farmers feed the country and the world.
Dennis Bulani, owner of The Rack, a custom ag application, fuel delivery, agrologist, has penned a book, ‘What
a Farmer wants you to know About Food’. The distance between consumers and farmers is growing ever wider, and the misconceptions about the food they eat is growing.
“Every day grocery shoppers are speaking up about how they think food should be produced - fewer pesticides, no GMOs,” Bulani says.
“This spring, I was at an event with hundreds of entrepreneurs. The speaker claimed our food system was harming people on purpose - that farmers, insurance companies, and media were all in on it. The host even said he thought the food system was poisoning people.”
Bulani wanted to change the conversation, thus the book and an accompanying website, TrustYourPlate. com, set to launch in a few weeks.
“The book and website have all the facts, messages, and data I wish I’d had in past conversations,” he explained.
“They dive into the tough topics: pesticides, fertilizers, GMOs, organics, Preservatives, protein sources, canola oil - and they’re all backed by solid research.”
The book will launch to the public in February, and Bulani wants the farming community onboard - there is power in numbers, he adds.
“At the end of the day, this isn’t about ‘good’ or ‘bad’. It’s not about who’s right or wrong. It’s about understanding.”
In the “Information Age” - the breakneck pace of ideas that are correct, use some truth to twist an agenda, or the WAG
(wild a$$ guess), is putting the family farm in peril with Joe Q Public flooded with dangerous misinformation. We’ve all heard it, “I don’t get my food from the farm. I get it from the store!” The disconnect with people not understanding where food comes from, the effort needed to feed a nation and the world, it is deeply disheartening. For Bulani, there is almost a reluctance to say you are a farmer, that you work in the ag industry.
“People are scared, and they’re trusting the stories they’re hearing because they’re not hearing ours,” Bulani explained.
With the book and website, Bulani is hoping to start shifting that trust gap.
“Let’s start having the tough conversations,” Bulani urged. “I hope the work I’m doing makes them easier. I hope you’ll get a copy of the book - and I challenge each of you to buy there or more to share with family and friends. Christmas is coming!”
‘What a Farmer wants you to know About Food’ is currently for order on Amazon.
“Let’s start changing the conversation around farming and food.”
Secret Santa ready for another Christmas season!
The Biggar Catholic Women’s League (CWL) are once again sponsoring the Secret Santa project.
Secret Santa is offered to families who are in need of assistance at Christmas time.
Children must be 16 years of age or younger
and live within the community of Biggar to be eligible for the Secret Santa gifts.
If you are in need of assistance this Christmas, please pick up a form at your child’s school or at the Biggar Credit Union community bulletin board.
If you would like to donate to the Secret Santa Project, you can drop your unwrapped gifts at one of the following businesses, Biggar Credit Union, Pharmasave, Leslie’s Drugs or the Guardian Pharmacy. If you would like to make a cash donation
it can be made at the Biggar Credit Union or mailed to Secret Santa, Box 1625, Biggar, Sask., S0K 0M0.
If you have any questions about Secret Santa, please contact Donna at 948-2377.
Biggar RCMP Report
by Sgt. Dereck Crozier, Biggar Detachment
This past week 40 occurrences were received by the Biggar Detachment.
In traffic, 10 drivers received guidance on traffic safety and one 50-year-old from Cando received a suspension for operating their 2018 black Dodge Ram under the influence of marihuana.
A 17-year-old rolled their 2005 black Chev Cobalt going out east on the Airport Road and a red GMC Sierra was reported driving around town erratically after school.
Deer seem to be out everywhere, except during hunting times, but Highway 14 had a Nissan Sentra strike a deer near Kinley, a Buick Enclave meet another around Perdue, and a Semi made impact with one just east of Biggar.
Although it may not always be possible to
avoid these critters, it is a good reminder to everyone that they seem plentiful on the highways at night. Maintain the speed limit and don’t out drive your headlights, speed drastically effects the physics of you being able to stop and react in time for what you see in your headlights.
Rural property owners can rest a little easier this week, the “Frog” has been jailed for the time being. Although this will also disrupt the supply chain for some, there is never a lack of activity. The remainder of the week, consisted steadily of “tweeker” drama that might be best explained by Dr. Hook at the ball.
The snow has found us, and the cooler weather means you will need more time to get to where you are going. Careful not to rush around and be mindful of stopping distances, as well, give your car time to defrost the windows properly for visibility, it is an offence to be operating your vehicle trying to peer through the little hole you scrapped off.
Be safe, and take care out there!
How Grand It Is!
by Sherry Martin, Secretary, Biggar Arts Council
A community gem has received a clean bill of health, recently, and locals will be tickling the ivory for many more years to come as the Biggar grand piano will continue making joyful music.
The Biggar Arts Council is responsible for upkeep and maintenance and does not charge any fees for community use of the piano. It was initially valued at $19,500, and since has had extensive servicing and repairs in 1985, 2005, and 2024. Today it holds a value of $48,000. Various fundraisers over the years have helped defray costs assumed by the local Arts Council for repairs and tuning. This past July’s celebration concert honouring Peggy L’Hoir’s 50 years of music teaching in Biggar yielded donations of $2,220 which was equally shared by the Arts Council and the Majestic Theatre. The grand piano is back in tiptop shape and will bring musical memories to the Biggar community for many more years.
Historically, the beautiful instrument came through special funding from Sask Trust/
SaskLotteries in 1981. It allowed for the purchase of five grand pianos by the Organization of Saskatchewan Arts Councils (OSAC) which were then applied for by cultural groups affiliated with such a provincial organization.
Biggar, Eston, Lanigan, Unity and Wynyard were the successful applicants chosen to receive a community grand piano. The cost of said piano to the community was $1 with the provision that if the Arts Council dissolved, ownership of the piano reverted back to OSAC. Biggar Arts Council was fortunate to have a home for the grand piano in the Third Avenue United Church Christian Education Building, then later Redeemer Lutheran Church, and finally the Majestic Theatre. Biggar’s grand was chosen specially by piano virtuoso Robin Harrison prior to his Stars For Saskatchewan concert here in February 1982. Now an iconic instrument used at recitals, professional concerts, music teachers, and various events, will remain in the hearts and ears of Biggar residents for many more years to come!
Sheila Itterman, left, Peggy L’Hoir, seated, and Sherry Martin beside Biggar’s Grand Piano, now with a clean bill of health. (Submitted Photo)
Dennis Bulani is hoping his new book will eliminate the gap on misinformation over where your food comes from and its safety. (Submitted Photo)
Letter to the Editor:
To the Ratepayers in the RM of Biggar:
An election was held on November 13 for Division 5 in the RM of Biggar.
At the end of counting there was a tie between the two candidates. At the discretion of the returning officer it was decided to draw a name out of a hat to determine who should represent Division 5.
A change in legislation had been brought forward and sent to municipalities in January so they would have time in this election year to pass a bylaw stating a re-election take place in the event of a tie. The administration for the RM of Biggar did not present a bylaw to council. A few years ago there had been a tie and the winner was determined by a reelection.
The entire municipality should not be happy with how this has transpired. However, the most disappointed have to be the 92 voters in Division 5 who made an effort to get out and cast their vote, regardless of who they voted for, and now realize their vote meant nothing.
A re-election or a hat draw? Which is “Democracy”?
A very concerned ratepayer... Louise Singer, Biggar, Sask.
by Sylvain Charlebois, Agri-Food Analytics Lab, Dalhousie University
While Canadians worry about U.S. policy shifts under Trump, Ottawa is the villain when it comes to putting the agri-food sector at risk
Make no mistake, the real issue for Canada’s agri-food sector isn’t what’s happening in Washington - it’s what’s happening here at home.
While many Canadians worry about what the next four years might hold with President-elect Donald Trump’s return, the focus should be on whether Ottawa is doing enough to support our food security, supply management, and the well-being of our farmers.
For those concerned about the future of Canada’s agri-food sector, the reality may be less about doom and more about data-driven strategies to maintain competitiveness.
DEADLINE MONDAY 5 P.M.
First, let’s examine food inflation during Trump’s first term. Back in 2016, when Trump was first elected, the political climate was similarly intense, with concerns about potential tariffs, renegotiated trade deals, and an America-first policy that could impact U.S. relations with Canada.
Upon taking office, Trump inherited a U.S. food inflation rate of minus four per cent - a figure that might sound beneficial to consumers, but low food prices often discourage corporate investment and stall innovation in the industry. Over the course of his term, food inflation eventually rose to four per cent but generally stayed manageable, averaging between 1.5 and 2.5 per cent.
Despite widespread fears of tariffs on Canadian goods, no measures were imposed that disrupted Canada’s food supply chain, which proved resilient. Then came the United
States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), Trump’s landmark trade deal, which reshaped commerce across North America. Ratified in 2020, Trump’s final year in office, this agreement led to a nearly 57 per cent surge in Canada’s agri-food exports to the U.S., reaching almost $60 billion last year. Previously, under the Obama administration, approximately 48 per cent of Canada’s agri-food exports went to the U.S. market, but today, nearly 60 per cent of these exports flow south.
This heavy reliance on the U.S. market is both a blessing and a curse - while Canada’s agri-food sector benefits from access to the vast American market, it also leaves the economy more susceptible to shifts in U.S. policy. Well-known for his America-first approach, Trump is keenly aware of this dependency and has leveraged it in trade negotiations.
Trump’s policies drew Canada into a closer commercial relationship with the U.S., particularly in agri-food. During his first term, Trump also pressured Canada to make concessions on its supply management system, allowing increased U.S. access to Canadian markets for products like dairy. Recently, Canada’s Senate criticized Bill C-282, which would protect supply-managed sectors - including dairy, eggs, and poultry - in future trade deals.
Critics warn that, if left intact, C-282 could turn supply management into an even bigger target for Trump’s administration.
But make no mistake, under a second Trump term, Canada will likely face additional pressure to grant more market access to American producers, and Canadian taxpayers may end up shouldering even larger subsidies for affected sectors. Supply management boards may
frame these payments as “compensation” for potential losses, but in reality, they are subsidies that stem from necessary quota adjustments.
The larger challenge, however, lies in Canada’s ability to maintain a competitive agrifood sector. Trump’s second-term agenda promises to cut energy costs, reduce regulatory red tape, lower taxes, and boost American farmers through a Farm Bill nearing $2 trillion. Since 2019, Canada’s wholesale food prices have risen nearly 40 per cent faster than in the U.S., putting Canadian producers at a significant disadvantage. Without prompt action from Ottawa to enhance Canada’s competitiveness, Canadian grocers may increasingly turn to more affordable American imports to keep prices down for consumers.
In the end, while Trump’s return may prompt some changes, Canadians should turn their attention to Ottawa’s actions - or inactions - in supporting our agri-food sector. Trump’s policies could indeed result in a greater presence of American products in our grocery stores, but the real solution lies in ensuring Canada’s agri-food sector remains robust and competitive. Instead of focusing on a distant White House, Canadians might be wiser to scrutinize decisions made closer to home on Parliament Hill.
The bottom line? Trump’s re-election doesn’t signal the end of the world, and any potential challenges can be managed by focusing on the data. The real concern is not Washington but rather our government’s commitment to safeguarding and supporting the health of Canada’s agri-food sector.
Bob Mason Notable Notes
There has been quite a bit of criticism about the “Sten gun” that was issued to a lot of the Canadian Forces during the 1939-45 Second World War.
To be sure, the much sturdier “Tommy Gun” or Thompson submachine gun that some fellows used, was a lot more reliable than the Sten. But reliable or not, it always made a fellow feel a little desperate when he saw a soldier lying dead with one still gripped in his muddy hands!
I think that the Schmeisser submachine gun that the Axis Forces used, was far superior to any that we had. And it still made one feel a little sad when he saw a bluegrey clad soldier, who had been mowed down, still holding on to one of them!
It seemed to me that a lot of guys suspected that the little Sten should work well because they were intended to, or they never would have been issued. But because designers had to make more room for ammunition, the rounds were staggered in the magazines. The magazines needed to be clean and well oiled all the time. By comparison, the rounds in the Schmeisser magazine were stacked directly on top of each other and, of course, worked with less maintenance - sometimes producing a dead German soldier anyway, one who hadn’t got around to cleaning it very much!
Personally, and certainly this is the only opinion that I’m qualified to give, the Sten that Y.T. (Yours Truly) carried, never failed on him once!
With its short barrel, the Sten sure wasn’t very accurate, and was more or less designed for close-in fighting. And being an infantry/ signaller, lugging a No. 18 radio around all day, Y.T. sure appreciated its small weight, too!
As far as that “close-in” stuff was concerned, the sucker (me!) who carried that radio strapped to his back, never saw much else! For instance, a quote from Page 351 of the book, “Black Yesterdays,” from the war diary of Waaliqijk C.T.B.
(Claude Thomas Bissell), Adjutant, on January 29, 1945, the platoon commander, Lt. Norman Perkins and the signaller, Pte. Mason, whose 18-set was completely destroyed by repeated hits from small arms fire, were the only ones to reach the house, code named, “Raspberry”. They entered a small room in the cellar while the Germans were still in the adjoining room. Both the officer and signaller miraculously escaped injury and managed to reach their platoon position again.
When I was looking through that book the other day, I sure realized that if Y.T. had at the time a fine, big rifle with him instead of a Sten, he would still be over there.
I’m pretty sure that I’ve mentioned this before,
but seeing these lines are about the Sten gun, maybe we’d better tell it once more.
We had a great hero with us once, when we seemed to be in trouble and heard a tank coming down a dusty side street.
“By Gosh, boys,” say the hero, “we’ve got to go out there and stop that machine!”
Out through the rubble the hero rushes, small machine gun levelled down the street toward the oncoming behemoth! Was he ever lucky that it was one of our own Shermans (M4 Sherman, U.S. made, medium Allied tank)! Besides a couple of machine guns and an 88-millimetre cannon, the German Tiger (heavy tank) had over four-inches of frontal steel armour! Too much for a 9-millimetre Sten!
So the war was just over and we’re standing around northern Europe when some bigshot decided to have a parade.
A young corporal in front of me jumped to attention, slamming his still loaded Sten down beside his right leg. The breach of his Sten spring back from the shock, picked up a round that somehow fired ... right up through his helmet!
Wow! Such enthusiasm!
Of course, most memories of the old Sten gun are long gone and have doubtless been replaced by some other much improved, Gosh knows what.
There’s one improvement that I kind of doubt the military types have figured out yet, though. The fine-tuned ability of any weapon to select
NEWSPAPER BINGO
and knock over only bad guys!
Maybe the so patriotic plans of the machine gun making people, including those who made the
Sten, have always been to do just that sort of thing, but after listening to the news lately, it seems to me that somehow they must have failed!
Ask The Money Lady
Dear Money Lady, My husband died in January, and we paid into mortgage protection insurance from 2004. The issue is that we had been paying mortgage insurance for 19 years with our regular payments, and when my husband died we began a claim for the mortgage insur-
ance and provided all the information to the bank. At that time, we were told there were two possibilities for claim, death or accident; however, because the cause of death was a heart attack they focused on the single death claim. We originally took out the insurance when the mortgage was $482,000 and I was shocked to only get $231,864, which only covered the balance of the mortgage. I thought the death coverage was for the original mortgage amount, but the bank said they had to account for the amortization on the loan. Should I get a lawyer to fight this? Jane
I am so sorry for your loss Jane.
Unfortunately, the
mortgage insurance you purchase from the banks is very different to what you may be used to with a regular insurance policy.
Mortgage insurance is upsold by financial institutions to pay off your mortgage balance in the event of a death and the beneficiary is the bank not the mortgagor. These funds are used to pay out and discharge the mortgage balance at the time of death, regardless of the amount that you started with. The cost of this insurance is always based on the original mortgage amount and added onto your monthly mortgage payments to make it more convenient. So, if the balance of your mortgage was only $231,864 and this is what the bank paid - then that would be cor-
rect.
Term insurance that you purchase through a licensed insurance agent pays out the face-value of the policy as a lump sum to the beneficiaries in the event of a death. This is very different to mortgage insurance since the original amount of the policy stays the same. The money paid out from a term insurance policy can be used any way you wish - to pay off debt or a mortgage, to invest, or to replace lost income.
Most people opt for mortgage insurance when they first get a mortgage since it is very easy to acquire. There is no medical exam required and you usually only have a few questions to answer truthfully at the time of application. But for all
its conveniences, mortgage insurance that you purchase through your financial institution, still has many drawbacks. When your mortgage is paid off or if you move to another lender, or sell your home, your coverage ceases.
Term life insurance on the other hand, is much more detailed and they may require medical tests and questions to underwrite the policy at the time of application to ensure the policy will be paid out if a claim is made. The costs for this type insurance varies based on your health, age, the coverage amount, and the term. Yes, it may be more cumbersome to get, but the benefits of a term policy far outweigh the banks alternative. Remember your coverage never
changes (unlike the mortgage insurance which decreases over time as your mortgage amount gets smaller), and it is portable.
Regardless of whether you move, or if you pay off your mortgage, or if you decide to change your lender, the term policy stays in place and you have peace of mind knowing your family is protected in the event of a tragedy.
Good luck and best wishes!
Written by Christine Ibbotson, author, finance writer, national radio host, and now on CTV Morning Live, and BNN, syndicated across Canada. Send your money questions (answered free) through her website at askthemoneylady.ca
Understanding the basics of financial literacy
Financial anxiety is on the rise in Canada, making financial literacy - simply put, the ability to understand and effectively utilize various money management practices including budgeting and saving among others - as important as ever.
In fact, 36 per cent of the general population feel anxious about their current financial situations with 25 per cent feeling strained, according recent research. Tak-
ing steps to become more financially literate and manage money more effectively can help. While there isn’t one “right” way to gain financial literacy, these steps can help grow your understanding and confidence around your finances.
Understand your finances
Understanding your finances and how your financial decisions impact your future self is essential for making
appropriate choices. Without this understanding of your income and expenses, you become vulnerable to making the wrong decisions and can put yourself at greater risk in the future.
To further expand your knowledge base, consider taking a financial literacy quiz to test your understanding of concepts such as compounding interest, inflation and risk diversification. If necessary, don’t
be afraid to seek the advice of a professional before making important financial decisions. Take control and plan with confidence
To take control of your short- and long-term financial priorities and aspirations, you should plan ahead. Establishing these goals is the first step to effective planning, whether lifestyle goals, hopes for retirement or specific items you wish to acquire such as a new vehicle
or home. This approach provides a target for building your savings, and protection plans.
Prepare and plan for life’s unexpected events
If not adequately prepared, unexpected events can have catastrophic impacts on household finances.
For example, having to leave the workforce early due to illness could mean years of lost earning power, which could impact your short- and long-term priorities and
aspirations. Therefore, it’s essential to ensure backup plans, such as a retirement account or life insurance that includes income protection if unable to work, are in place if the unexpected happens. This “cushion” can contribute to greater confidence in your future financial outlook and stronger feelings of security going into waves of economic uncertainty.
Christine Ibbotson
Agriculture needs a louder voice in Moe’s shuffled cabinet
Calvin Daniels Agriculture
by Calvin Daniels Saskatchewan Premier
Scott Moe has announced his new cabinet.
Well, that’s not exactly accurate. This edition of cabinet is very much just a reshuffle of what was in place pre-election. There are a bunch of ministers sporting new portfolios, but there are few truly new faces at the tableand after 17 years that is unfortunate.
This particular group better have put forward every good idea they have after so many years at the controls. The hope for new ideas was in the newly elected MLAsthe ones that might have ideas not yet tossed around the cabinet table. Sadly, Moe chose the same deck, with a shuffle.
Now it is to be granted that the Sask Party numbers in rural Sas-
katchewan suggest there is absolutely nothing wrong, and the Sask Party has got everything absolutely right through the years. Any concerns with pockmarked highways, rural crime, access to doctors and emergency rooms and other suggested issues were unfounded. Rural Sask is giddy in its support of all things Sask Party. But, it does leave some interesting placements in cabinet.
Daryl Harrison, the MLA for Cannington in the province’s southeast, takes over from David Marit as Minister of Agriculture.
Certainly in his home riding Harrison is wellliked. He was re-elected in October with nearly 74 per cent of the popular vote in his constituency - which is a resounding victory.
But, does that make Harrison a good candidate for the ag portfolio - one which you might expect almost every rural riding MLA to have at least some level of understanding. It is interesting in a producer.com story pointed out Harrison was someone “who spent 30 years in the oil
industry and also raised cattle,” almost like cattle were secondary.
Of course in most portfolios the minister is simply the face of things, the one who answers questions for sure, but not without an office filled with knowledgeable staff providing background and support.
And, in the case of agriculture it may matter even less who carries the banner. After health care and education, and debt servicing is accounted for the budget dollars left to everything else the provincial government is responsible for is rather limited.
Even then one might suggest portfolios from social services to highways draw more government interest than agriculture these days, the Sask Party support base being rural Saskatchewan notwithstanding.
So for Harrison to shine in his new role he needs to be a louder voice at the cabinet table, raising the stature of the portfolio in terms of government investment given agriculture is still a massive economic driver in the province.
That is where his legacy in the portfolio lies.
BIGGAR ANNOUNCEMENT
Everyone from Biggar and the Surrounding areas is invited to attend Blue Christmas
A Service of Prayer and Remembrance
To honor the memory of loved ones and friends BIGGAR UNITED CHURCH 907 Quebec Street Biggar, SK ursday, December 5, 2024 7:00pm Refreshments to Follow
Sponsored
The Saskatchewan Traveller ... Nova Scotia Edition by Trudy and Dale Buxton
We are in the heart of where history started in Canada. This part of the world offers so much in the beauty of the land and in the history of what made our country what it is today.
After visiting Port Royal it’s time for lunch and there is no better place to go then to find a small diner in Annapolis Royal and feed on some fish.
Fish and Chips in the Maritimes is so much fresher than pulling something that’s been in the freezer for a few months.
In Nova Scotia the usual fish of choice is Haddock. But there are alternatives to Haddock, and some use a nice Atlantic Cod that isn’t farmed.
The fishery business in Nova Scotia is still big business as one of the top industries in the province. The fishing industry contributes over $1.7-billion into the local economies of Nova Scotia and around the world. It’s hard not to go anywhere in this province without finding something that has to do with fishing.
The reward is sitting down at the table and feasting on some of that fresh fish.
After lunch it’s time to take another highway and head towards Digby and do some exploring.
We have decided to take the old Number 1 highway to Digby - it’s a much slower but more scenic drive.
On our way we go through the community of Cornwallis.
Cornwallis is now a living space of condos and homes. At one time Cornwallis played a very important part in the Canadian Armed Forces as a main training base for soldiers entering the military. This area served as HMCS Cornwallis from 1942 to 1968 before
being renamed CFB Cornwallis. It served as a training base until its closing in 1994 when it was turned over to developers and made into a community and called Cornwallis Park.
Today there is a population of around 500 people calling Cornwallis Park home.
Featuring a very large conference centre, every year Cornwallis Park plays host to over 1,000 Royal Canadian Sea Cadets for training exercises.
Continuing on down the road we come to the community of Digby, home to the world’s largest scallop fleet.
Digby has a population of just over 2,000 people. The town was named after Sir Admiral Robert Digby, a Royal Navy Officer and also a Member of Parliament.
Digby’s native name is Oositookun, meaning ear of the land, probably
because if you look at where Digby is located and the land around it, it looks like an ear.
New England settlers first came to this area in the early 1760’s naming it Conway, however it was Sir Admiral Digby that formally settled this community in 1783 thus naming the town, Digby. Digby sits on the western shore of the Annapolis Basin and at the entrance to the “Digby Gut” - a narrow channel of water that connects the Annapolis Basin to the Bay of Fundy.
In the early years Digby was known for its sizeable shipping fleet and became an important water transportation centre in the area and then with the arrival of the train in the late 1800’s connected ships to land.
Stay tuned as we continue with our trip into Nova Scotia.
Fish’n Chip Restaurant. (Independent Photos by Dale Buxton)
Digby Harbour.
24114DS2
AGI Envirotank LP recently hosted their annual Christmas Party this past weekend. Thanks to all that attended - employees raised $1,260 from their raffle table, which is going to support our local food bank. Pictured is AGI’s Andrea Harrabek, right, and Biggar Food Bank Barb deHaan. (Submitted Photo)
WE HAVE A
We Have Bingo Winners… congratulations to Arlene Cattell, Jo Angelopoulos, Robert Bourk, Eva Kowalchuk, Lorne Sutherland, Neal Houdek, and Janet Hunter for winning the latest installment of newspaper bingo. Each will share the $400 prize to be spent at a participating local retailer. The next black out bingo will start on November 28, cards are now available for only $2 and available only at The Independent.
Nats drop home game ... U13 National, Jyles Poletz looks to cut the visiting Rosetown Red Wings breakout, Sunday at the Jubilee. Nats had a great game but fell just short with a 7-6 loss. Remember, this upcoming weekend will be Biggar Minor Hockey Days, so come on down to the Jube for some exciting action! (Independent Photo by Kevin Brautigam)
So, so close ... National U9 Reid Silvernagle gets shut down by a visiting Unity net minder, Saturday at the Jubilee Stadium. Nats played hard by lost the game, 15-6. This weekend is Biggar Minor Hockey Days, so come on down to the Jube for the excitement! (Independent Photo by Kevin Brautigam)
Give this guy a pat on the back ... Dion Harrabek puts together a new look for the Biggar Ball Diamonds, Saturday. New scoreboards and signage will make our facility at the Rec Complex a first-class place to play ball. Harrabek has been working hard at it with some pretty generous donors and workers. Give them all a pat on the back ... this makes our diamonds one of the sweetest places in the country! (Independent Photo by Kevin Brautigam)
Provincial Bound! ... Biggar Central School Blazer Senior Boys volleyball team had a great weekend recently placed third at a tourney. The podium now sends them down the road for Provincial play. Congratulations, Blazers! (Submitted Photo)
"Biggar
Minor Ball”
would like to send a huge thank you to all the sponsors that made our scoreboard project possible. We have a pretty amazing community that we are able to receive enough support to tackle these projects. is will be another huge asset to our already amazing facility, we can't wait to use it this spring! We would also like to thank all the volunteers that showed up to lend a hand. So proud of our community. Take a walk down to the diamonds to see these amazing scoreboards in person.
The hardest aspect of choosing the players for Canada’s team in the 4 Nations Faceoff tournament in February is not necessarily who will make the team, it’s the angst involved in leaving some truly great players off the roster.
As an example, Connor McDavid and Nathan MacKinnon are slamdunk selections. Should veteran Sidney Crosby be a sentimental pick? Or should he be on the team because he’s still among the Canadian elite? Decisions, decisions. Will the rookie phenom Connor Bedard make the team based on his reputation and his potential superstardom, or should another Connor, McMichael of the Washington Capitals, who scored 12 goals in his first 16 games, be chosen instead?
The 4 Nations Faceoff is a contrived, mid-
Not easy picking Canada’s team
February competition featuring teams representing Canada, the U.S., Finland and Sweden and those who follow the NHL know that the largest vacancy is the absence of a team from Russia. Today’s sporting universe excludes the Russians from almost every organized event, and this is no different. But would Nikita Kucherov, Kirill Kaprizov, Alex Ovechkin and Artemi Panarin form a fairly solid nucleus to build a team around?
Politics being politics, however, the Russian players get an 11-day break to vacation in some warm, seaside resort while 92 of their colleagues play for a trophy and national pride.
Back to Canada’s team.
Don Sweeney and Jim Nill are the co-general managers of the team, ostensibly in charge of selecting the 23-player roster, but they have a battalion of scouts scouring NHL arenas seeking to guarantee the right choices.
So who gets a spot on the team? Mark Scheifele of the Jets or the Leafs’ Mitch Marner? Or both? For the purpose of this analysis, a forward is a
forward, whether they’re designated a centre or winger.
Canada should be strong up front and on the blueline, but relatively weak in goal. Teams will consist of 13 forwards, seven defencemen and three goalies.
Forwards (13): McDavid, MacKinnon, Bedard, Crosby, Sam Reinhart, Scheifele, Brayden Point, Marner, Jared McCann, Matt Duchene, Sam Bennett, Brad Marchand and Mark Stone.
Defencemen (7): Cale Makar, Josh Morrissey, Alex Pietrangelo, Shea Theodore, Morgan Rielly, Evan Bouchard, Owen Power.
Goal (3): Stuart Skinner, Jordan Binnington and one of either Darcy Kuemper, Cam Talbot, Adin Hill and Connor Ingram.
So who gets left home if this roster turns out to be accurate? Well, there’d be no Mathew Barzal of the Islanders, no Dylan Strome of Washington (top 10 in scoring all season so far), no McMichael, no Travis Konecny, no John Tavares. Defencemen on the bubble include Mike Matheson of Montreal, Dougie Hamilton of
New Jersey, Travis Sanheim of Philadelphia, MacKenzie Weeger of Calgary and Noah Dobson of the Islanders. Quality players all. It will be an honour for any player to be selected for the Canadian team but come playoff time, when the pace of play is ramped up and the best players are being counted on to produce, will they have enough left in the tank to make a legitimate chase for Lord Stanley’s silver mug?
• Late-night TV host Jimmy Fallon: “Thank you, fantasy football, for letting me know that even in my fantasies, I am bad at sports.”
• RJ Currie of sportsdeke. com: “On Nov. 4, 1963, Ronald Howes marketed the first Easy-Bake Oven - three years before the start of the Maple Leafs last Stanley Cup-winning season. Since then both have run on the same principle: Replace one dim bulb with another hoping the final product won’t be half-baked.”
• Michael Che on Saturday Night Live’s ‘Weekend Update’: “At one point, Donald Trump was so far ahead in rural Pennsylvania, they put in Bronny.”
• Headline at theonion. com: “LeBron James
Sask West This Week
by Phil Heilman
A light weekend in the Sask West Hockey League (SWHL) ended up with some great action.
It is very early, but the Edam 3 Stars and the Macklin Mohawks sit on top of the league with a perfect 2-0 record, with Wilkie also on 4 points with a 2-1 record. The Kindersley Sr Klippers sit fourth with a 1-1 record, the Biggar Nationals sit fifth with a 0-2-1 record, with the Hafford Hawks and the Unity Miners tied for last with a 0-1 record.
On Sunday afternoon, in a game fit for a Mike Leach-led air raid offence, the Wilkie Outlaws hosted the Biggar Nationals, and it was the Outlaws who ended up on the right side of an 8-6 game.
It took almost all of the first period for the scoring to begin though, as Mike Sittler potted his first of the year to put the home team up 1-0.
Jonathon Redlick would reply on the power play with just 1:35 left in the period.
However, Troy Gerein had a different idea as he slid the puck in with just 1.6 seconds on the clock to give the Outlaws the 2-1 lead after 20
minutes.
In the second period, we learned with defense was as Brett Boehm scored twice in a 14 second span, giving Wilkie the 4-1 lead. That was quickly followed by Redlick’s second of the game to cut the lead to 4-2. Rick Cey and Ryan Keller would score a minute apart after that to extend that lead to 6-2.
The Nats though weren’t done as Taylor Bucsis and Brett Novak added their own goals to cut the lead back to two goals. Sittler added his second of the night to bring back to 7-4, but shorthanded, Redlick would breakaway and again cut the lead to 7-5. The period finally came to an end without any more scoring.
In the third, Chris Henry would score on the power play to cut the lead to 7-6, but Rick Cey would answer with his own power play marker to bring the lead back to 8-6.
Brett Matlock stopped 60 of 68 shots in the loss, while Curtis Sander took the win stopping 23 of 29 shots. He was replaced by Jared Herle who stopped all four shots he faced in the final 12:08 of the third.
On Saturday night,
The Edam 3 Stars rolled to an 8-2 victory over the hometown Unity Miners.
It started out tough for the Miners as Keegan Tiringer opened up the scoring just 51 seconds into the game, with Cody Danberg adding his first of the year before the 10-minute mark of the frame. Tiringer, on the power play, extended the lead to 3-0 before David Dziurzynski scored his first as a Unity Miner to cut the lead to 3-1.
Joel Blaquiere would score twice, one a PPG, to bring the lead to 5-1 after 20 minutes.
In the second, Jared Blaquiere would pile on to the lead before David Chorney would chop it back down to four goals. In the final frame, Tiringer would make the Edam hats fly on the power play to extend the lead to 7-2, and Logan Nachtegaele would add his first as a 3 Star to round out scoring.
Brett Blaquiere would stop 16 of 18 shots in the win, while Ryan Rewerts stopped 13 of 21 shots in the loss. Brett Vanderveer came in for relief in the final 16:04 of the third, stopping all 10 shots he faced.
On Friday night, the
Denies Son Receiving Preferential Treatment When Being Lifted Up To Dunk.”
• Jake Mintz of Yahoosports.com, on Japanese pitching sensation Roki Sasaki, bound for MLB in 2025: “If Sasaki’s fastball is a unicorn, his splitter is a unicorn that breathes fire, speaks five languages and cooks a world-class risotto. There’s truly nothing like it.”
• RJ Anderson of CBSsports.com, on Juan Soto’s free-agent search for an MLB landing spot: “Soto and agent Scott Boras are taking meetings with various teams’ braintrusts to determine which club is the best possible fit.
(Spoiler: it’ll be the one that offers the most money.)”
• Vancouver comedy guy Torben Rolfsen: “The Dallas Cowboys have to get back to what
made them successful in the ’70s and ’80s: Recreational drugs, driving infractions and strippers.”
• Rolfsen again: “Giants vs. Panthers in Munich. Why does the NFL keep giving Europe these unappealing matchups? This is like sending Nickelback over to the Eurovision song contest.”
• Greg Cote of the Miami Herald: “Tyson vs. Paul is ridiculous. A freak show. Elder abuse? But we can’t not watch.”
• Facebook post from Everett Silvertips’ general manager Mike Fraser, on the Mike Tyson-Jake Paul outcome: “What did you expect?!?! He’s 58. He’s 58! I’m 46 and my knees hurt because it’s raining.”
• Care to comment? E-mail brucepenton2003@ yahoo.ca
Macklin Mohawks, in a goalie duel, took down the Kindersley Sr Klippers, 3-1 at the CU Legacy Centre in Macklin.
The scorekeeper had to wait until the second period before he could write down anything, with Carson Ens opening up the 1-0 Mohawks lead. That lead held until Jonny Calkins tied things up very early in the third period. Spencer Bast didn’t let that last long, scoring just two and a half minutes later to take the lead back. Hunter Steinhubel would seal the deal with an empty net goal in the game.
Logan Drackett took the tough loss, stopping 34 of 36 shots, while Trevor Martin stopped 31 of 32 shots in the win.
Keegan Tiringer has started his senior hockey career on an absolute heater, scoring 10 points (7 goals, 3 assists) in just two games. Very early, but still, very good!
Just two games on the docket for Week 3, as the Unity Miners host the Wilkie Outlaws on Friday, and the Hafford Hawks travel to ‘The Jube’ for a Friday night tilt against the Biggar Nationals.
Biggar Bowl weekly scores
Monday Adult Mixed
Tuesday Night Mixed
Thursday Afternoon Seniors
YBC
Biggar Bowling Weekly Scores
Ladies High Single - Marilyn Miller 226. Ladies High Triple - Marilyn Miller 571. Mens High Single - Mat Harrabek 180. Mens High TripleMat Harrabek 461.
Ladies High Single - Jeannie Stewart 197. Ladies High Triple - Jeannie Stewart 459. Mens High Single - Michael Hebert 247. Mens High TripleMichael Hebert 613.
Ladies High Single - Esther Singer 256. Ladies High Triple - Esther Singer 490. Mens High Single - Walter Fernets 240. Mens High Triple - Walter Fernets 654.
Pee Wee Single - Blake Foster 141; DoubleAshton Kramer 162. Bantam Single - Declan Westgard-Mclay 150; Triple- Declan WestgardMclay 338. Junior Single - Bentley McNaughton 198; Triple - Bentley McNaughton 505. Senior High Single - Jake Keefe 148; High Triple - Hanna Keefe 396.
Aries, put aside any errant musings and give important tasks your utmost attention this week. Energy is better spent on others, so keep this in mind when you get busy.
TAURUS –
Apr 21/May 21
Taurus, your coworkers are all excited and fussing over a new development. Maintain an even keel as you assess the situation. You can be curious, but be guarded as well.
GEMINI –
May 22/Jun 21
Gemini, your love life is in a really good place this week, which enables you to spend some quality time with your special someone. A romantic dinner sounds like a good plan.
CANCER –
Jun 22/Jul 22
Your partner is the most important person in your life right now, Cancer. So much so that this week every bit of your attention will be focused his or her way.
LEO –
Jul 23/Aug 23
Leo, money could be burning a hole in your pocket, so you might want to go on a spending spree. Keep in mind that there are a few big-ticket purchases waiting in the wings.
VIRGO –
Aug 24/Sept 22
You don’t always have to be decisive, Virgo. Sometimes you can kick back and let someone else make decisions for a change. This is a great way to rest and recharge.
by Pastor Dale Worrell, Biggar United Church
It amazes me, that from time to time; some Christians use the phrase, ‘don’t rock the boat,’ when that is a distinctly un-Christ-like position to take.
My Jesus was a radical revolutionary, consorted with thieves, prostitutes, and tax collectors. My Jesus held the hands of the unclean, both in body and soul. My Jesus not only rocked the boat, but He also invited Peter to step out of it in faith. (Matthew 14:29)
Christ’s church is not charged with maintaining the status quo; it is challenged to overthrow the establishment and rebuild one based on the love of our God and each other completely. We see a wonderful example of God’s love in the rainbow, which is a symbol of the covenant between Creator and all of creation. (Genesis 9:13)
Whenever I see a rainbow I feel that love, which includes all the people of God whether they live in the village or on the margins. There is no better way of advertising the ministry and mission of Christ’s church than emblazoning
rainbows on our signs to show that we honour and affirm this covenant.
The affirmation of a rainbow is meant for all the sons of Adam and daughters of Eve; do not be deceived into thinking that it denotes a small segment of creation.
However, be vigilant in your radical inclusivity because if one of us is excluded, the covenant is weakened for all. “My house will be called a house of prayer for all people (Mark 11:17) - that is all the people who God loves and who are affirmed in that love with the sign of a rainbow.
So, ultimately the decision is not about whether one small church, in one small town, puts one small rainbow, on one small sign. It is about whether we as bearers of Christ’s name will step out of the boat in love, unity and faith and hold Jesus’ church up as a beacon of inclusivity and the love of God for all to see. (Resource: Rocking the Boat-K. Sorenson.)
Often the Bible story that is the most challenging for ‘comfortable’ folk is when Jesus turns over the tables in the temple and chases out the moneylend-
Raymond Sadler, your former mayor and current business owner would like to thank the town of Biggar for all of your support in the last election. I will continue to be a strong advocate for your voice for the future of our community.
Thank You
Raymond Sadler
LIBRA –
Sept 23/Oct 23
A few jobs need to get done, Libra. But afterwards you should have plenty of time for some social interaction, whether that be attending a party or simply enjoying a night out.
SCORPIO –
Oct 24/Nov 22
Scorpio, think about the things you want instead of what other people want. It’s alright to be a little selfish once in a while and put yourself first for a change.
SAGITTARIUS –
Nov 23/Dec 21
Sagittarius, you could have fun this week and so may all the other people around you simply for being in your presence. This situation will continue in the days ahead.
ers. Sadly, we have let the power of money rule in the house of God once again. Laughingly we cite ‘the new Golden Rule’: he who has the gold makes the rules... ha!
But that isn’t what Jesus taught.
When the moneylenders had been chased out he said, “My house will be called a house of prayer for all people (Mark 11:17) - that is all the people who God loves and who are affirmed in that love with the sign of a rainbow. Jesus did not value power, or position, or even affluence; some of his greatest battles were against the influential Pharisees. Jesus healed on the Sabbath and that annoyed the people in power. Jesus touched bleeding women, and that really ticked them off. Jesus also accused the Pharisees of loving money more than they loved their God. Jesus told them they couldn’t serve both God and Money (Luke 16:13) and neither can his church.
So ultimately the decision is not about whether one small church, in one small town, puts one small
CAPRICORN –
Dec 22/Jan 20
Capricorn, the next challenge on your list could be a big one. But if there is anyone who can handle the pressure, it is you. Don’t be afraid to call on friends if you need them.
AQUARIUS –
Jan 21/Feb 18
Aquarius, go out into the world and try a few new things. Your social energy and curiosity might peak this week, and you’ll need new experiences to feel satisfied.
PISCES –
Feb 19/Mar 20
Your finances might need an overhaul, Pisces. This could mean taking a new job or expanding what you’re doing to earn more. Start putting out feelers to gain information.
rainbow, on one small sign; it is about whether we as bearers of Christ’s name will step out of the boat in love, unity and faith and hold Jesus’ church up as a beacon of inclusivity for all to see.
There may be storms, some may choose a different path, but never let it be said that we choose to act out of love of money, over the love of God, whatever the consequences.
In closing I would encourage you not to conflate the importance of one’s ministry with its length. Thus far the message which Jesus brought has lasted 670 times longer than His ministry.
OBITUARIES
MILDRED GIBSON
March 24, 1927 - November 14, 2024
With tremendous sorrow the family of Mildred Evelyn Gibson announce her passing on November 14, 2024 at the grand age of 97.
Born near Davidson to parents Ken and Ivy Faris on March 24, 1927, Millie grew up with sisters Helen, Eileen, Patricia, Gertrude, and Beatrice at Goose Lake Farm in the Tessier area.In 1947 she married Jack Tweddle. The couple moved to Feudal where they farmed. Millie and Jack welcomed daughter Carolin, son Robert, and daughter Norma. Tragedy struck in 1962 when Robert passed away in a farming accident. Millie grieved but continued to support and cheer her daughters on at their academic, sport, and personal achievements.
1968 brought Millie Åa son-in-law when Carolin married Raymond Hedman. She was ecstatic with the arrival of her first grandchild Carla in 1974. 1975 gave Millie a second son-in-law when Norma married Blaine Lacina. Much to Millie’s joy, Carolin and Raymond welcomed her second grandchild, Leighann, later that year.
Millie and Jack separated and, after some time practicing her independence, she met Norwell (Nib) Gibson. The two were married in 1977 and in 1980, a few short years later, the pair were beyond delighted when Norma and Blaine provided them with grandson Chad. In 1981 grief once again struck Millie’s life when Norwell passed away. Millie wasn’t one to let sadness destroy her commitment to family and community so distracted herself with activities she loved including her family, friends, gardening, and participation in community groups. She was absolutely thrilled when Norma and Blaine gifted her with a fourth grandchild, Candace, in 1982.
Throughout the years Millie enjoyed visiting with friends, traveling, gardening, her involvement in the Perdue Ag Society and United Church choir, and weekly bowling initially at KG Bowl and then at Perdue Bowling Alley.
Above all, however, nothing brought her greater joy than the arrival of a new generation to love. Her great-grandchildren Bethanie, Zachari, Jaeden, Annalise, Madyx, Reece, Rielle, and Reed gave her hours of cuddles, chats, and entertainment which she treasured.
Left to mourn Millie’s passing are her daughter and son-in-law, Norma and Blaine Lacina; grandchildren Carla Hedman (Brad Hryniuk), Leighann Hedman, Chad (Amy) Lacina, and Candace Lacina (Mike Little); great-grandchildren Bethanie (Ben Sulzie) and Annalise Lacina, Zachari and Jaeden Dumas, Madyx Hedman; and Reece, Rielle, and Reed Lacina; numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.
We take comfort in knowing that she’s been reunited with son Robert, daughter Carolin, husband Norwell, parents Ken and Ivy, all of her sisters and brother-in-laws, and many extended family members and friends.
A celebration of Millie’s life will take place at 11:00a.m. Thursday, November 21, 2024 at the Perdue Recreation Complex in Perdue, SK. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Perdue United Church, the Perdue Agricultural Society, or a charity of your choice.
For those unable to attend, live-streaming will be available at: https://m. facebook.com/norma.lacina/ Arrangements entrusted to Gerein Funeral Service.
WAYNE EDWARD SCHMIDTKE
December 29, 1964 - October 30, 2024
Wayne, a cherished husband, brother, brother-in-law, and uncle passed away suddenly on October 30, 2024, at the age of 59 in Biggar, Saskatchewan.
Wayne was the dear husband of Glenda, and a devoted owner of their two dogs, Mocha and Bandit.
Wayne was raised in Cando, Saskatchewan. After graduating from high school, he farmed for several years, maintaining farm equipment and growing crops. He worked at Harmon International in Saskatoon for a while. After getting married, he and his wife settled in Biggar, and he eventually transitioned into working for the R.M. of Glenside prior to taking a position with the Town of Biggar.
Wayne was a long-time employee of the Town of Biggar in the Recreation Department. He helped maintain the swimming pool and recreational areas in the summer, and the ice in the skating rink during the winter months. Wayne became a familiar face to those using the recreational facilities in our town. Outside of work, he enjoyed taking rides on his motorcycle, building with wood, tinkering in his garage, spending time with his dogs and barbequing in his backyard.
He is survived by Glenda, his wife of 32 years, his brother Donald (Cathy) of Saskatoon, sister-in-law Donna Burlock (Gary) of Ottawa, brother-inlaw Wes Cowlishaw (Kelly) of Martensville, nieces and nephews Amy, Grant, Brenden (Melaniya), Allie and Leah. Wayne was predeceased by his parents, Walter and Helen Schmidtke.
Wayne will be missed by his family, friends, colleagues, and members of the Biggar Associated Gospel Church.
A funeral service was held on Thursday, November 7, 2024 at the Biggar Community Hall. Interment took place at the Biggar Cemetery.
Donations in Wayne’s memory can be made to: SPCA (info@ saskatoonspca.com), Ranger Lake Bible Camp (www.rlbc.ca), Cancer Foundation of Saskatchewan (www.cancerfoundationsask.ca/donate).
The family of Wayne Schmidtke wish to extend our thanks for the support and many kindnesses shown to us at the time of Wayne’s passing. The food, cards, flowers, and donations were very appreciated. Special thanks to the first responders, Pastor Sawatzky, the pallbearers, Martens Warman Funeral Home, Biggar Associated Gospel Church and the Town of Biggar. Wayne would have been so honored to have the Town employees as his honor guard.
Glenda, Donna, Wes and families
JUDITH ANN MILLER(NEE LOUKOTA)
May 20, 1949 - October 23, 2024
Judith Ann Miller (nee Loukota) passed away on Oct.23, 2024 at The Meadows care home in Swift Current. Judy was born in Dodsland, SK on May 20, 1949 to James and Georgina Loukota of the Daisy Hill area, near Ruthilda. She spent her early years on the family farm until James built a house in the town of Biggar. Judy was the younger of two daughters, Linda being the older.
She went to school in Biggar, and then moved to Saskatoon where she took CNA (Certified Nursing Assisant), which later became LPN (Licensed Practical Nurse). Later she moved to Moose Jaw to begin her career in nursing. It was during her time in Moose Jaw that she met the love of her life, Gerald Miller. She worked as a nurse until she had children. At this point, she put her nursing career on hold to run a day-care in her home, so that she could be at home with her children. She continued this until her children “got fed up” with this arrangement (one day, one of her children asked her if any other kids were coming over. When she told them, “no”, her children celebrated, because they’d be able to play with their toys. This was when Judy realized that the day-care days needed to come to an end), and so she went back to nursing. She continued in her career until her health required her to take early retirement. Her care of others went far beyond being a professional obligation, as she became a “bonus mom” to some of her childrens’ friends as well. Those friends knew that Judy would do whatever she could to help them whenever they needed her help.
because it had been hers, much to her daughter’s chagrin. Judy is survived by: daughters Heather (Bryan) Ens of Saskatoon, Charlene Miller of Swift Current; son Karl Miller of Swift Current; grandchildren, Gavin, Leodegan and Kai Ens of Saskatoon. She is also survived by sister: Linda Baldwin of England; Sisters-in-law: Betty Miller of Caron, Janice (Ron) Appleyard of Gull Lake area, Gloria Rosbrook of Regina; four nephews and four nieces and their families. She was predeceased by her husband: Gerald Miller; parents: James and Georgina (nee Boudy) Loukota; grandparents: Joseph and Catherine Loukota and Frank and Mary Boudy; in-laws: Melville and Mary (nee Ross) Miller; Gerald’s grandparents: John and Margaret Miller and William and Blanche Ross; Brothers-in-law: Don Baldwin, Arnold Miller and Carman Cross as well as her aunts and uncles.
A celebration of life service was held at 2 PM, on Saturday, November 9th, at Parkside Memorial Funeral Home. Donations in Judy's memory can be made to the Swift Current SPCA (Online: https://spcaswiftcurrent.com/ make-a-donation/ Mail: 2101 Knight Crescent, Swift Current, SK S9H 3X3) or to the Meadows Auxiliary - Silver Wings Van (Mail: C/O Elenore Forge491 Curry Cres, Swift Current, Saskatchewan, S9H4S3 RE: Memorial donation - Silver Wings Van). Arrangements are in care of Parkside Memorial Funeral Home – Ryan Cappelle & Hayden Cappelle.
While her children (Heather, Charlene, and Karl) were growing up, she made time to go on numerous field trips and band trips, as well as volunteering as camp nurse at Girl Guide camps, and volunteering in any other way that she could, including many hours on the phone looking for volunteers to work bingos. Judy always enjoyed doing crafts of all sorts. Participating in the craft clubs at The Meadows gave her great joy. Her children think that Judy “never met a craft she didn’t like. Judy was a member of the Swift Current Adult Band for a number of years, playing clarinet. For the first number of years she shared her daughter’s clarinet,
4 key ways to take control of your savings
Saving money is a critical financial practice that nearly everyone strives to accomplish. Yet it is often easier in theory than reality.
If you are anxious or concerned about your financial situation and your ability to save, know you’re not alone.
More than onethird of Canadians feel anxious about their current financial situation. Further, many households across the country do not feel in control of their
finances, with 13 per cent reporting they’ve “forfeited contributions to their retirement accounts,” potentially impacting themselves later in life. These figures from the World Financial Group paint a concerning picture of how people across the country feel about their current and future finances. Consider these savings tips.
Create a budget Every budget begins with your net income. Ensure you subtract
deductions like taxes and workplace benefits, such as insurance or retirement plan contributions. This way, you know exactly how much money is available each month. Next, calculate all fixed expenses, including regular monthly payments or bills. These include utilities, cellphone bills, rent or mortgage, vehicle payments and anything that remains static month-to-month. Subtract those fixed expenses from your net
income to create your monthly budget.
Track your expenses
Once your budget is in place, it’s much easier to keep track of expenses that vary month-tomonth like gas, groceries and entertainment costs such as dining out, seeing a movie or going to a sporting event. Tracking minor expenses may seem tedious initially, but logging each purchase can help set a foundation for financial accountability. Set savings goals
Tracking your expenses for a few months should give you a good idea of how realistic it is to save a set amount of money each month. Before you set a goal, or if you’re struggling to consistently reach savings goals, take a financial literacy quiz to test your knowledge then consider meeting with a financial services professional.
Pay down debts
Debt is one of the largest barricades people face when trying to save more money. If you
feel debts are stopping you from reaching your financial goals, know it is possible to pay off debt while saving at the same time. Make sure to prioritize debts with higher interest rates that lead to compounding costs in the future, and then, if possible, make more than the minimum payment to pay them off faster. It may limit you in the short-term but can equate to more financial freedom - and the ability to save more - in the future.
WE NEED THE FOLLOWING POSITIONS FILLED •MEMBERS AT LARGE •TREASURER Everyone is Welcome
